| [ Summary ] |
Originally polymyxin B-immobilized fiber column direct hemoperfusion (PMX-DHP) was used to treat sepsis. However, additional applications for of PMX-DHP include not only severe infectious diseases, including pneumonia induced by Gram positive and negative bacteria, but also acute exacerbations of interstitial pneumonia has recently attracted much clinical attention. Several reports have exhibited improvements in oxygenation in patients with acute exacerbation of interstitial pneumonia. Though the decline of MCP-1 in the peripheral blood and absorption of neutrophils and MMP-9 by the column were observed after PMX-DHP treatment, a comprehensive understanding of mechanisms leading to improvements due to PMX-DHP on respiratory failure is still unclear. Moreover, an optical method for application of PMX-DHP in patients with acute exacerbation of interstitial pneumonia has not been established. Prospective clinical trials for the evaluation of PMX-DHP on acute exacerbation of interstitial pneumonia are necessary. However, a wide variety of disease backgrounds and poor prognoses are problematic for the conduction of trials. |